Fiat’s new 124 Spider will cost from £19,545 OTR.

Reviving a storied nameplate, the new Fiat 124 Spider was penned at the Fiat Style Centre, in Turin. Aiming to encapsulates the essence of its classic predecessor in a modern package, the profile view is described as ‘pure classic roadster’, with its long wheelbase, a cockpit hunkered low near the driven rear axle and a long bonnet.

The nose of the new 124 Spider also takes its inspiration from the 1966 original while the bonnet emulates the twin power domes of the second-generation Fiat 124 Spider. Under the 2016 bonnet is a turbo-charged four-cylinder engine which delivers 140hp and 240Nm of torque to the rear wheels via six-speed manual transmission and compact rear differential. Capable of accelerating to 62mph in 7.5 seconds, the 124 Spider has a top speed of 134mph.

Three trim levels will be offered in the UK: Classica, Lusso and Lusso Plus. Standard equipment on the entry-level Classica version includes four airbags, air conditioning, a leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, a leather-trimmed gear knob, cruise control with speed limiter, 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless engine start and a powerful infotainment system with USB, AUX and Bluetooth connectivity. A seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with DAB, WiFi, two USB ports and a multimedia control knob is available as a £500 option.

The mid-range Lusso version is equipped with that seven-inch infotainment system as standard, but adds satellite navigation with 3D maps and the Parkview rear parking camera as well. It is also equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, heated leather upholstery, automatic climate control, front fog lamps, keyless entry, chrome exhaust tips and a premium silver finish on the windscreen frame and rollover bars.

The top Lusso Plus model builds on the Lusso model’s spec by adding adaptive LED headlamps, LED DRLs, automatic lights and wipers and a nine-speaker BOSE sound system (including stereo headrest speakers on both seats).

The new car will be available in eight colours, with two pastel finishes (Passione Red and Ice White), five metallic shades (Volcano Black, Argento Grey, Fashion Grey, Magnetic Bronze and Italia Blue) and one tri-coat pearlescent finish: Urban White.

To minimise weight the multi-layer canvas roof is a manual unit that can be operated easily in seconds  and without the driver having to leave their seat. Doing so reveals a cabin built using soft-touch premium materials. A dual-pinion electric power steering system has been specifically tuned to give the Spider a responsive, ‘Italian feel’. Combined with the lightweight architecture and balanced weight distribution, the turbo-charged Fiat offers a ‘dynamic and exciting’ driving experience.

Prices start at £19,545 OTR for the Classica, with the Lusso model priced at £22,295 and the top Lusso Plus trim £23,295.

For further details on the 124 Spider, check out our earlier story ..and see the car on the roads of Italy here: